Other secondary chronic gout, unsp knee, without tophus

This diagnosis code signifies a form of chronic gout that is secondary to another underlying condition, affecting an unspecified knee joint. Importantly, it specifies the absence of tophi, which are characteristic urate crystal deposits. This indicates persistent inflammatory arthritis due to hyperuricemia without the visible nodular formations.

This code is appropriate when documentation confirms chronic gout secondary to another condition, such as renal insufficiency or diuretic use, impacting an unspecified knee. The medical record must explicitly state the absence of tophi and not specify laterality of the affected knee. Use when the physician's diagnosis is "chronic secondary gout of the knee, without tophi" and laterality is not documented.

• Ensure documentation clearly states "secondary" gout and explicitly denies the presence of tophi.
• Do not use this code if the laterality of the affected knee (right or left) is specified; instead, select a more specific code.
• Always code the underlying condition causing the secondary gout first, followed by this code.